Jacksonville Neighborhoods

[adavidphx]

An opportunity within my company is requiring me to move to Jax, which I never been to.  I'm doing some research on Jax and finding an apartment there so what neighborhoods should I consider?

While appreciating any advice, I would like to list three things that will be key for living in my new hometown:

1) My job requires 90% travel and so close proximity to the highways is very important.  ( I know the beaches are too far away, bummer!  )
2)  I'm originally from NYC so urban living is preferable but close to it is just as good.
3)  Will definitely need to rent.

Just from going on this forum, I know that Avondale/Riverside is highly recommended and I will consider it, but are there any other areas in Jax I should consider?  Again, any advice would be greatly appreciated!

[The Compound]

Close to highways, and urban living those best describe Riverside/Avondale.

You can jump on I-95 or I-10, they intersect right here.

This is also one of the only areas that there are many bars, shops and restaurants that you can walk to. Almost any other area of town is too spread out.

[tufsu1]

San Marco is also worth checking out...there are also some apartments in the downtown area (mostly converted buildings and newer condo towers).

[thelakelander]

Murray Hill is worth checking out as well.  With the local housing market in the dumps these days, you can find some pretty good rental rates for apartments and single family homes.

[Joe]

Riverside/Avondale, San Marco, and Murray Hill are all good suggestions.

Also consider Springfield if you don't mind a "transitional" neighborhood. Don't overlook Downtown either. There are some nice apartment buildings now, as well as some condo buildings which sublet. Only problem is that downtown rents are usually more expensive.

[CityLife]

Springfield is as close to 5 Points as Murray Hill and you will get more bang for your buck.

[adavidphx]

Thanks for all of your comments.  Next week, I'll get a chance to visit Jax (hopefully all week) and check out these neighborhoods myself before making a decision by next month.  One of my boss was a former Jax resident and said I should also check out the newer areas of Jax, particuraly near St. John's Town Center, so the Southside will be considered as well.

Another deciding factor I forgot to mention is living close to one of my company's 8 satellites offices in Jax, there at least one in each of Jax's major sections.

Once again, thanks to all.

[thelakelander]

The area around SJTC is suburban sprawl.  While it is a popular place, it's not urban and you'll need a car for just about anything you want to do outside of your living room and gated apartment complex amenities.  Just letting you know so you won't be disappointed if you're looking for "urban living."